The city where the sea meets the sky, the skyscrapers are outclassed by nature’s skyscrapers and the sun sets over the water every night. You might say Vancouver’s pretty picturesque. There are so many places to enjoy stunning views that we decided to list them! Here are the Top 9 Must-See Viewpoints in Vancouver:

By Cecilia Ryan

Cypress Mountain Viewpoint

Photo credit – Cecilia Ryan

On the edge of the city, Cypress Mountain’s viewpoint is the perfect spot to see ALL of the city. If you’re in the mood for a hike, take it one further and enjoy the Eagle Bluffs 8km round-trip hike. With views over Howe Sound and the city beneath you, Cypress Mountain offers fabulous viewpoints whether you want to put in the effort to get them or not!

Canada Place

Photo credit – Vancouver Photowalks

Take in the city’s high-rise buildings, world-famous convention centre, Stanley Park, North Shore mountains and more! Watch the busiest sea-plane terminal in the world and enjoy the views of the stunning cityscape. Vancouver Photowalks offer a guided tour of the area with a lesson from a professional photographer to show you how to capture the best views with your camera.

Vancouver Lookout Tower

Photo credit – Vancouver Lookout Tower

The clue might be in the name! The Vancouver Lookout Tower provides 360 degree views of the city with handy informative panels letting you know what exactly you are looking at! On a clear day, Mount Baker glistens in the distance and with tickets valid all day, you can come back up to see the city at night. Tours are also available and it’s a great spot to check out Vancouver and learn more about the city’s many landmarks and skyline.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Photo credit – @i_am_lukasz

Views over the city to the backdrop of the North Shore mountains. Check! Queen Elizabeth Park offers fabulous views of the city from a short distance. The best views can be enjoyed outside the Bloedel Conservatory or whilst dining at Seasons in the Park.

Granville Island

Photo credit – Cecilia Ryan

Granville Island is a must-visit destination in Vancouver but it’s also a must-see viewpoint with the busy False Creek, Burrard and Granville bridges, English Bay. As the tiny False Creek Ferries or multicoloured Aquabuses zip through the channel of yachts, paddle-boarders and more, you’ll find yourself whiling away more than a few minutes. Join a Vancouver Photowalk on their night-time Granville Island tour to take in the stunning city at night and learn how to caputre these views with your camera. See my image above for proof!

The Chief

Photo credit – Cecilia Ryan

Just an hour out of Vancouver in nearby Squamish, the views over the Howe Sound are some of the most spectacular in the area. A rewarding hike leads you to one of the best viewpoints near Vancouver. Catch the turquoise blue waters below and even glimpse kite-surfers launching from the Squamish Spit. Perfect for a short day trip from the city.

Spanish Banks

Photo credit – @lenagromyko

Enjoy the golden sand beach with the backdrop of the city behind you. This unique viewpoint allows you to laze on a beach whilst taking in the sea, city and mountains before your eyes. Not many cities in the world offer such a contrast of beach and mountains but Vancouver nails it!

Quarry Rock

Photo credit – @iamfsc

A short but satisfying hike along the Baden Powell Trail leads you to the Quarry Rock, offering gorgeous views over Deep Cove. Catch sight of kayakers below or boats sailing along the Indian Arm. Sunrise is a great time to catch the views without the crowds.

Lighthouse Park

Photo credit – @wflbc

West Vancouver’s picturesque park offers stunning waterfront views of the Gulf Islands, the Atkinson Point Lighthouse itself and the Lions Gate Bridge and Vancouver itself. With enjoyable trails and anHead to the park for sunset to capture some spectacular shots.